Plant 'remedy' for virus to be tested, says Madagascar leader

Antananarivo, Madagascar | AFP | Thursday 4/9/2020
Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina has said that tests will be carried out on a claimed plant-based "remedy" for the new coronavirus.

Nirina Ravololona (2nd R), 55, sells ginger and lemon at the Ambodivona market in Antananarivo on March 26, 2020. The Ambodivona market bustles even more than usual, as vendors were quick to hitch on to the pandemic as a new business opportunity. Some vendors quickly switched from selling their usual products to selling ingredients for natural remedies to boost the body's immune system.
RIJASOLO / AFP

He has previously made claims about alternative treatments for the virus that have triggered words of caution from the UN's World Health Organization (WHO).
"On March 24, I received a letter saying that Madagascar possesses the remedy which could -- 'could' because it still has to be proved -- cure the coronavirus," Rajoelina said in a television programme late on Wednesday.
He said the letter claimed the plant could "completely cure coronavirus" but gave no details about the plant or the author of the letter.
Tests were being lined up and the country's scientists and laboratories were willing to take part, he said.
"We are going to carry out tests, and I am convinced that Madagascar will find this remedy," he said.
"We are going to change the history of the entire world."
Ninety-three people have been infected with the virus in Madagascar, according to official figures.
The pandemic has triggered a rush for herbal formulas, lemons and ginger in the belief that they can protect against the virus.

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